In a scene straight out of a horror movie, a shirtless man wielding a chainsaw was fatally shot by a St. Charles police officer while threatening residents of a local assisted living facility Sunday morning.
At approximately 8:45pm, St. Charles Police Officers were dispatched for a “welfare check” call in the 900 block of North 5th Avenue. Witnesses reported that a shirtless male was holding a chainsaw and attempting to cut down a tree on the property of the River Glen of St. Charles, an assisted living center.
Just before police arrived, witnesses indicated that the subject had gained entry to the lobby of the building and had begun confronting residents with the chainsaw. According to the St. Charles Police Department, officers unsuccessfully attempted to de-escalate the situation as the suspect continued his attempts to use the chainsaw against residents of the building, as well as the officers.
Police proceeded to tase the suspect, but his attack continued, at which point an officer shot the suspect. First aid was rendered, but the suspect was later pronounced deceased at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital.
Residents of the assisted living facility and responding officers were treated at the scene for minor injuries.
The suspect’s name is being withheld until their next of kin are notified.
According to a press release from the Illinois State Police, the ISP will lead the investigation of the officer-involved shooting in accordance with normal protocol. The ISP will deliver its findings to the Kane County State’s Attorney for assessment.
